Experience the Holidays on Burlington's Church Street Marketplace

The holidays are here, and there’s only one place to be: Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, Vermont.

If your Vermont holiday wish list includes sipping hot cocoa while wandering among dazzling lights, shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, and mingling with a community of merrymakers, then Church Street is the place to be.

Each year, the Church Street Marketplace transforms into Vermont’s holiday hub, and there’s no better way to embrace the season.

Why Church Street Marketplace is Your Holiday Destination

Imagine 100,000 sparkling lights on a 30-foot tree, the scent of fresh evergreen in the air, and the sound of happy kids and festive music.

Throw in more than 100 locally owned businesses, family-friendly events, and surprises around every corner, and you’ve got all the fixings for a memorable holiday experience.

Don’t Miss the Santa Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony

Mark your calendar for Friday, November 29, 2024, when the festivities kick off with a Santa Parade at 12 pm, starting at City Hall. Cheer on Aero the Griffin, Mike the Knight, and the big man himself, Santa Claus!

Stay for the main event: the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5:15 pm.

With carols, a reading of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, and a stunning 30+ foot tree illuminated with over 100,000 lights, it’s a magical evening you’ll remember forever.

Pro Tip: Arrive early—this is a rain-or-shine event, and it’s always a crowd favorite!

Festive Fridays & Free Family Fun

Every Friday in December, the Marketplace comes alive with Festive Fridays:

Visit Santa at Snowflake Station (17 Church St.)
Enjoy free gift wrapping for your finds.
Take advantage of extended store hours to shop local and support local businesses.

📸 Capture the Holiday Spirit: Hop on the Big Blue Express kids’ train for a ride around the Christmas tree or snap a photo with the friendly Siberian Husky sled dogs on December 15!

Shop Small, Win Big

Support local businesses on Small Business Saturday (November 30) and enjoy free hot chocolate coupons with $25+ purchases at participating stores.

Vote for your favorite storefront in the Holiday Window Contest (December 6–15). Stroll down the Marketplace and pick your winner in categories like “Most Festive” or “Most Creative.”

🎄 It’s a win-win: Give back to your community and snag unique gifts for everyone on your list.

More Special Holiday Events

Krampus Walk – December 14 at 7 PM.
Tuba Christmas – December 21 at 1 PM.
Menorah Lighting – December 25–January 2.

Don’t miss the BTV Winter Market in City Hall Park every Friday through Sunday through December 22. Stock up on handcrafted goodies, seasonal treats, and warm beverages!

Parking Made Easy

From 99¢/hour downtown parking to FREE parking on Sundays, the Marketplace makes it easy to enjoy a stress-free holiday season. Click here for parking details.

The Church Street Marketplace is the heart of the holidays in Vermont and one of the best places to shop local, enjoy an incredible meal, or get into the holiday spirit.

Tara Schatz is a freelance writer and the founder and editor-in-chief of Vermont Explored and Back Road Ramblers, an American road trip blog. She is also the co-author of the 3rd edition of AMC’s Best Day Hikes in Vermont, released in May 2023, and the author of 100+ Wonderful Ways to Experience Vermont.